Guwahati Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Guwahati is a city located in the state of Assam in northeastern India. It is the largest city in the state and serves as its commercial, educational, and cultural hub.

The city is situated on the banks of the Brahmaputra River and is surrounded by the Shillong Plateau to the east and the Meghalaya hills to the south. Guwahati is also known as the “Gateway to the Northeast” because it is the main transportation hub for the entire region.

Guwahati has a rich history, and there are several ancient temples and archaeological sites in and around the city. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Guwahati include the Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Temple, Assam State Museum, Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, and the Brahmaputra River Cruise.

The city is also known for its cuisine, which features a variety of dishes made with bamboo shoots, fish, and meat. Assamese tea, known as “sah-saa” is also a popular beverage in the region.

Places to Visit in Guwahati

There are many interesting places to visit in Guwahati, some of which are:

• Kamakhya Temple: This temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India, dedicated to the goddess Kamakhya. It is located on top of the Nilachal Hill and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
• Umananda Temple: Located on a small island in the Brahmaputra River, the Umananda Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Guwahati.
• Assam State Museum: The Assam State Museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of the state, with exhibits including archaeological finds, traditional costumes, and art.
• Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is home to the endangered one-horned rhinoceros, as well as other animals such as tigers, elephants, and wild boars.
• Nehru Park: Located in the heart of the city, Nehru Park is a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. It features lush greenery, a musical fountain, and a children’s play area.
• Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra: This cultural complex is dedicated to the life and works of Srimanta Sankaradeva, a 15th-century saint and cultural icon of Assam. It houses a museum, an art gallery, and a traditional dance and music center.
• Guwahati Planetarium: The Guwahati Planetarium is a popular attraction for science enthusiasts and features a variety of educational shows and exhibits related to astronomy and space exploration.
• Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 190 species of birds found in the area, including migratory birds that visit the sanctuary during winter.

Best Time To Visit Guwahati

The best time to visit Guwahati is between the months of October and April, which is considered the winter season in the region. During this time, the weather is pleasant with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

The monsoon season in Guwahati lasts from June to September and is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, which can make it difficult to travel around the city. The summer season, from May to September, can be quite hot and humid, making it uncomfortable for tourists who are not used to the heat.

If you are interested in attending cultural festivals, then the months of January and February are good times to visit Guwahati, as the city hosts the annual Bihu festival, which is one of the most important cultural events in Assam. This festival features traditional dance performances, music, and food, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and visitors alike. Looking for more places in Assam? Have a look on our guide to Tinsukia here.

Things to Do in Guwahati

There are many exciting things to do in Guwahati, some of which are:

• Visit the Kamakhya Temple: This temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites in India and is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Guwahati.
• Take a River Cruise: A river cruise on the Brahmaputra River is a great way to explore the city and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Explore the Assam State Museum: The Assam State Museum is a great place to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the state and see a variety of exhibits showcasing traditional costumes, art, and archaeological finds.
• Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Guwahati is famous for its delicious cuisine, which features a variety of dishes made with bamboo shoots, fish, and meat. Be sure to try some local specialties such as pitha, masor tenga, and khaar.
• Visit Umananda Temple: This temple is located on a small island in the Brahmaputra River and is a popular tourist destination, especially for those interested in architecture and history.
• Experience the Bihu Festival: The Bihu Festival is one of the most important cultural events in Assam and is celebrated with great enthusiasm by locals and visitors alike. It features traditional dance performances, music, and food.
• Visit the Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary: This wildlife sanctuary is a great place to go birdwatching and see a variety of bird species, including migratory birds that visit the sanctuary during the winter.
• Shop for Local Handicrafts: Guwahati is known for its handicrafts, which include handwoven textiles, bamboo and cane products, and traditional jewelry. Be sure to visit the local markets to shop for some unique souvenirs.

How to Get Around in Guwahati

There are several ways to get around in Guwahati, some of which are:

• Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available in Guwahati and are a convenient way to travel around the city. They can be hired on a metered basis or negotiated for a fixed price.
• City Buses: Guwahati has a well-developed public transport system, with regular city bus services that connect different parts of the city. The fares are affordable, and the buses are a good option for budget travelers.
• Metro Rail: The Guwahati Metro is a rapid transit system that connects different parts of the city. It is a fast and efficient mode of transport for commuters and travelers.
• Rental Cars and Bikes: Rental cars and bikes are available in Guwahati, and they are a good option for those who want to explore the city at their own pace. However, it is important to have a valid driving license and to be aware of the traffic rules and regulations.
• Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city, especially in the central areas. Many of the popular tourist attractions in Guwahati are located close to each other, making it easy to get around on foot.

Where to eat in Guwahati

Guwahati offers a variety of dining options, including local cuisine, as well as Indian and international cuisine. Here are some popular places to eat in Guwahati:

• Khorikaa: Located in Beltola, Khorikaa is known for its delicious Assamese cuisine, particularly the grilled meat dishes that are cooked on charcoal.
• Naga Kitchen: Naga Kitchen is a popular restaurant that offers a range of Naga dishes, including smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry, and fermented soybean stew.
• Paradise: Paradise is a popular restaurant chain in Guwahati, serving a range of Indian and Chinese dishes, including biryani, tandoori chicken, and noodles.
• Delicacy: Delicacy is a vegetarian restaurant that serves a range of North Indian and South Indian dishes, as well as fast food options such as burgers and pizzas.
• The Woking Mama: The Woking Mama is a popular restaurant that offers a range of Chinese and Thai dishes, including dim sum, noodles, and curries.
• Gam’s Delicacy: Located in Uzan Bazar, Gam’s Delicacy is known for its Assamese thali, which features a variety of local dishes, including fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and dal.
• Khorisa: Khorisa is a restaurant that specializes in traditional Assamese cuisine, including fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and duck roast.
• The Guwahati Address: The Guwahati Address is a rooftop restaurant that offers a great view of the city and serves a range of Indian and international dishes, including pizzas, burgers, and salads.

Famous street stalls in Guwahati

Guwahati is known for its street food, which offers a unique blend of flavors and is a must-try for anyone visiting the city. Here are some popular street stalls in Guwahati:

• Kali Mandir Bhel Puri: This street stall, located near the Kali Mandir in Fancy Bazar, is known for its delicious bhel puri, a popular Indian snack made with puffed rice, vegetables, and chutney.
• Momo Ghar: Momo Ghar is a popular street stall that serves a range of momos, a popular Tibetan snack, including steamed, fried, and soup momos.
• Jugal’s: Jugal’s is a popular street food joint that serves a range of chaat, a savory Indian snack, including pani puri, sev puri, and aloo tikki chaat.
• Gopal Momo: Gopal Momo is another popular street stall that serves a range of momos, including chicken, pork, and vegetarian options.
• Raju’s Kitchen: Raju’s Kitchen is a popular street stall that serves a range of Assamese snacks, including pitha, a traditional Assamese sweet made with rice flour and coconut.
• Lakhimi Food Stall: Lakhimi Food Stall is a popular street stall that serves a range of local snacks, including jhal muri, a popular snack made with puffed rice, vegetables, and spices.
• Kanki Barua Stall: Kanki Barua Stall is a popular street stall that serves a range of local snacks, including black gram fritters, known as bora.
• Bora Bazaar: Bora Bazaar is a popular street food market that offers a range of local snacks, including jolpan, a traditional Assamese breakfast made with rice cakes, coconut, and jaggery.

Where to stay in Guwahati

Luxury accommodation

Guwahati offers a range of luxury accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular luxury accommodations in Guwahati:

• Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati: Located on NH-37, Radisson Blu Hotel Guwahati offers luxurious rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel also features several dining options, including a rooftop bar and a multi-cuisine restaurant.
• Vivanta Guwahati: Vivanta Guwahati, located in Khanapara, offers spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel also features several dining options, including a contemporary Indian restaurant and a bar.
• Novotel Guwahati GS Road: Novotel Guwahati GS Road, located on GS Road, offers modern rooms and suites, a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel also features several dining options, including a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar.
• Kiranshree Grand: Kiranshree Grand, located in Paltan Bazaar, offers spacious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel also features several dining options, including a multi-cuisine restaurant and a bar.
• Hotel Palacio: Hotel Palacio, located in Ulubari, offers luxurious rooms and suites, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel also features several dining options, including a rooftop restaurant and a bar.

These luxury accommodations offer a range of amenities and services, such as free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and airport transfers, to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay in Guwahati. Looking for more places in Assam? Have a look on our guide to Tezpur here.

Budget accommodation

Guwahati offers a range of budget accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular budget accommodations in Guwahati:

• Zostel Guwahati: Located in Pan Bazaar, Zostel Guwahati offers affordable dormitory-style accommodation and private rooms with shared bathrooms. The hostel also features a common room, a rooftop terrace, and a kitchen.
• Prashanti Tourist Lodge: Prashanti Tourist Lodge, located in Paltan Bazaar, offers budget rooms and suites with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. The lodge also features a multi-cuisine restaurant and a travel desk.
• Hotel Rituraj: Hotel Rituraj, located in Fancy Bazaar, offers budget rooms with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. The hotel also features a multi-cuisine restaurant and a travel desk.
• Hotel Millennium: Hotel Millennium, located in Paltan Bazaar, offers budget rooms and suites with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. The hotel also features a multi-cuisine restaurant and a travel desk.
• Hotel President: Hotel President, located in Pan Bazaar, offers budget rooms and suites with basic amenities, including free Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service. The hotel also features a multi-cuisine restaurant and a travel desk.

These budget accommodations offer affordable rates and basic amenities to ensure a comfortable stay in Guwahati. They are also located in convenient areas, close to popular tourist attractions, shopping areas, and transportation hubs.

Travel Tips Guwahati

Here are some travel tips for Guwahati, India:

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Guwahati is between October and April. The weather during this time is cool and pleasant, and it’s ideal for exploring the city.
• Getting around: The easiest way to get around Guwahati is by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Taxis can be booked through online platforms like Ola, Uber or local services like “Jugnoo” while auto-rickshaws are readily available throughout the city.
• Safety: Like any other city, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Avoid travelling alone at night and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety.
• Sightseeing: Guwahati is famous for its beautiful temples and natural attractions, including the Kamakhya Temple, Umananda Island, and the Assam State Museum. It’s best to plan your itinerary in advance to make the most of your time there.
• Food: Guwahati is known for its delicious Assamese cuisine, which includes dishes like bamboo shoot pickle, pitha, and fish curries. Be sure to try out local eateries like “Khorikaa” and “Gam’s Delicacy” for an authentic culinary experience.
• Shopping: The city has many shopping options, including traditional Assamese handicrafts and textiles, which can be found in markets like the Fancy Bazaar, Pan Bazaar and Paltan Bazaar. It is also famous for its tea and silk production, so consider buying some as souvenirs.
• Dress code: Guwahati is a conservative city, and it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites. It is also advisable to carry a shawl or scarf to cover your head as a sign of respect when entering religious places.

I hope these tips help make your trip to Guwahati enjoyable and memorable!

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